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Separate conversations with three psychologists have confirmed my undocumented observations that people are less happy these days. I see less smiling and joking, and greater concern for the future. Certainly October 7 continues to impact the Jewish community in particular, as antisemitism expands its daily presence, coupled with yet another rejection of a ceasefire by Hamas. Where is the pressure on Hamas to accept a ceasefire that is equivalent in intensity to the pressures placed upon Israel? I would not expect this subject alone to be the source of receding happiness, especially since the Jewish community is a scant 2.5% of the population in the United States. Uncertainty due to the pending presidential elections most likely adds some concerns. Prices continue to rise, product packaging continues to shrink, and corporate earnings swell, leaving the most vulnerable in our society with no choices, just insecurity.

As the level of happiness sinks, coupled with rising sadness, an unspecific malaise, depressing media reporting as we await what new campus protests will arise as classes resume, there are other negative factors rising as well. Uncivil discourse, which is most notable during election cycles, reaches for the lowest of lows. The ability to agree to disagree in a civilized manner is an endangered species. Respect for someone different than you hovers between tolerance and intolerance. I think of the truth offered by a fictional character, Master Yoda, whose genius is sorely needed: Fear is the path to the Dark Side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to H. H leads to suffering.

Fear mongers are not satisfied with the words of H. They have turned to domestic terrorism, unable to recognize that violence does not gain support. Instead, it encourages supporters to reject them. Former Senator Alan Simpson summed it up best in his eulogy for former President George H. W. Bush: H corrodes the container it’s carried in. So where do we find this vanishing thing called happiness?

Make the time to do the things that you like to do. Find ways to bring happiness to others, as the joy they exude is infectious and will make you feel good. Find a recording of a comedian that you like and watch it. Search for some of the old comedy shows, like The Carol Burnett Show, or old movies like The Marx Brothers. Cook food that you really like, or go out to eat and let someone else do the cooking. Invite friends over just to schmooze. You can even come to shul (You knew that I had to mention it.).

Happiness won’t just show up at your door unless someone unexpectedly ordered something wonderful for you on-line. Happiness must be created, sought after, and  discovered. I’m going to take the liberty to rewrite Deuteronomy 16:20, which we will read soon in synagogue: “Happiness, happiness shall you pursue, that you may thrive…” Or if you prefer, listen to Bobby McFerrin’s recording of “Don’t worry, be happy.” Let’s strive to reverse the trend and grow happiness. We need it.